MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly set to rival neighbours Man City in their bid to sign AC Milan midfielder Ismael Bennacer.
The 22-year-old spent two years on Arsenal’s books before departing for Italian club Empoli in 2017.
Manchester United are interested in AC Milan midfielder Ismael BennacerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
The Gunners rejected the clause to resign him last summer and Bennacer made a £14m switch to AC Milan.
The Algerian has since impressed in his debut campaign with the Italian giants, making 21 starts at the San Siro.
According to Algerian outlet Competition, via Sport Witness, Bennacer’s performances have attracted the attention of Europe’s elite.
Both United and City are “following the matter”, with Pep Guardiola hoping to pair the star with international teammate Riyad Mahrez at the Etihad.
Last summer, the duo helped Algeria to their first African Cup of Nations victory since 1990 – with Bennacer voted Player of the Tournament.
But Paris Saint-Germain are said to be leading the race after they had an opening offer of £35m rejected by Milan.
The outlet adds that any clubs who bids around £45m would give them “food for thought”.
PSG chief Leonardo is said to have made a lucrative contract offer to Bennacer, but the midfielder will not force a move away.
He made one League Cup appearance for Arsenal as a 17-year-old in 2015 but was otherwise overlooked and left the Gunners in search of first team football in 2017.
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport about his time in England, he said: “I have no regrets.
“I still got to train with important players like Mesut Ozil and Santi Cazorla.
“I had four years left on the Arsenal contract, but I had to be at a club where they really wanted me.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
